Additional 3.3 Million Vehicles Recalled For Takata Airbag Problems

Just when we thought that the largest recall in U.S automaking history couldn’t possibly get any larger, airbag manufacturer Takata recently announced that it is recalling an additional 3.3 million faulty airbags.

In a story that appeared on CBS Local in Miami, this latest recall affects the frontal airbags in certain 2009, 2010 and 2013 vehicles from by most automakers including Audi, BMW, Daimler Vans, Fiat Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Jaguar-Land Rover, Honda, Toyota, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru and Tesla models.

The reason cited for the recall is that the airbags can deploy with excess force, causing the metal inflator to break apart sending shrapnel into the vehicle and potentially injuring occupants inside.

The explosive chemical ammonium nitrate used in the manufacture of the mechanism that deploys the airbags is being blamed for the defect. When the chemical breaks down and deteriorates over time. When the bag is deployed in warm and humid climates such as what we have here in Florida, it causes the chemical to burn too quickly, blowing apart the canister.

The defect has resulted in over 180 people being injured with 20 people losing their lives. Takata has received both a criminal conviction and fines which have caused the Japanese manufacturer into bankruptcy.

So far 19 automakers have had to recall some 69 million inflators in 42 million vehicles. This latest additional recall is part of those that are being phased in over the next three years by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA). Vehicles which are in high-temperature, high-humidity states will receive priority.

Automakers know the value of protecting consumers by installing safety equipment. Since 1991, the United States Intermodal Surface Transportation Act required passenger cars and light trucks to be installed for both the driver and front seat passenger seats. Many thousands of lives have been saved since that time according to the NHTSA. Even so, faults in manufacturing can cause equipment to fail such as is the case with Takata airbags.

If you live in the Miami-Dade area and if you or a loved one has suffered an injury in an accident in a vehicle or vehicle component under recall, it’s a good idea to have an attorney. Before you sign any statement or accept any settlement for your accident, it’s important to speak with an attorney who will protect your rights. You could be eligible for compensation for any damages to your vehicle, hospital bills, medical expenses or other losses due to your accident.